Melanotic Neuroectodermal Tumor of Infancy —A Rare Case of an Encapsulated Tumor

Abstract

Melanotic neuroectodermal tumor of infancy (MNTI) is a rare benign, locally invasive neoplasm afflicting the infant more often in the craniofacial region. The current understanding is that this tumor’s origin is neural crest cells. The typical presentation is that a rapidly growing non-ulcerated anterior maxillary mass occurs in an infant usually less than six months old. This tumor may involve other areas including the ovaries, epididymis, femur, mandible, and brain. We present that an 8-month-old infant with a maxillary lesion of MNTI appeared encapsulated, which is a hitherto unreported feature. Investigations leading to the diagnosis and the management of the case are also presented. The need to report cases of this rare entity cannot be overemphasized as this will go a long way in adding new knowledge about its biological nature.